Buckwheat crepes are a delightful twist on the classic French pancake, offering a nutty flavor and a gluten-free option. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner, these crepes are versatile and easy to make at home.
Let's take a closer look at what makes these crepes so special. Buckwheat flour is the star of the show, providing a nutty, earthy flavor and a gluten-free base. Water keeps the batter light and smooth, ensuring the crepes are thin and delicate. A pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor. Eggs provide structure and help with the crepes' elasticity. The unsalted butter adds a touch of richness and helps the batter cook evenly. Lastly, you'll need some additional butter or oil to keep the crepes from sticking to the pan.
For a savory twist, fill your buckwheat crepes with sautéed mushrooms and spinach, topped with a sprinkle of cheese. If you're leaning towards sweet, try them with fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, and a drizzle of maple syrup. They're also fantastic with a smear of nut butter and sliced bananas.
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. In it, whisk together the buckwheat flour and salt until well combined. Set it aside for a moment. In another bowl, beat the eggs until they're frothy, then add the water and melted butter, mixing everything together until smooth.
Now, gradually pour the wet mixture into your dry ingredients, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. You want a smooth, pourable batter. Once mixed, let the batter rest for at least 10 minutes. This allows the flour to hydrate fully, which is key for perfect crepes.
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium. Lightly coat the surface with butter or oil, ensuring the pan is hot but not smoking. Pour about 1/4 cup of batter into the skillet. Quickly tilt the pan in a circular motion to spread the batter evenly across the surface.
Cook for about 1-2 minutes. You'll know it's time to flip when the edges start to lift and the surface looks set. Use a spatula to carefully flip the crepe and cook for another minute until it's lightly browned. Remove and repeat with the remaining batter, stacking crepes between sheets of parchment paper to keep them from sticking.